Whether you’re considering Dysport injections or have just had them, knowing what to avoid afterward is key to getting the best results. Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) injection works by relaxing targeted muscles to smooth wrinkles, but its effectiveness depends on proper aftercare. The first 24-48 hours are essential, as certain activities can increase bruising, swelling, or even cause the treatment to spread unevenly. Below, we outline what to skip after your injections, from exercise to skincare routines to ensure optimal, long-lasting effects.
Why Aftercare Matters
Dysport is an injectable treatment that temporarily relaxes facial muscles by blocking acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. During the first few hours, the toxin is still integrating with nerve endings, making it more mobile and sensitive to external forces. Rubbing, heat, vigorous motion, or a blood‑thinning substance may spread it beyond the target area, potentially reducing effectiveness or affecting nearby muscles. Adhering to these rules has been shown to lower complication rates and preserve the intended aesthetic outcome.
Timeline‑Based Aftercare Guide
Below is a breakdown of what activities to avoid in the hours after treatment, along with the reasoning for the same:
| Time Window | Activities to Avoid | Why It Matters | Safer Alternatives |
| 0–4 hours | Lying flat, bending forward, touching or massaging treated areas, hot showers | Limits drug migration and flushing | Stay upright; use gentle facial expressions |
| 4–24 hours | Strenuous workouts, alcohol, caffeine, makeup, blood‑thinning NSAIDs or supplements | High blood flow and pressure increase bruising and diffusion risk | Light walking; acetaminophen if needed; soft cleansing without rubbing |
| 24–48 hours | Saunas, hot tubs, tanning beds, long hot showers, direct UV exposure | Heat and vasodilation may worsen swelling and shift product | Normal‑temperature shower; broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ outdoors |
| Days 3–7 | Facial massages, sleeping face‑down | Product still integrating | Sleep supine with slight head elevation |
| Week 1–2 | Facials, chemical peels, microneedling, additional injectables or surgery | Prevents irritation and unintended diffusion | Resume routine exercise; basic skincare without exfoliants |
Essential Precautions After Dysport
By avoiding the following activities, you can reduce the chances of complications while allowing Dysport to deliver its full wrinkle-reducing potential as intended:
1. Pressure & Touch
Even light manipulation can displace newly injected Dysport.
- Refrain from rubbing, scratching, or massaging the sites for at least 24 hours.
- Pat and avoid rubbing when washing or drying your face.
- Keep helmet straps, tight hats, or heavy eyewear off treated areas the first day.
2. Heat & Sun Exposure
Heat dilates blood vessels, encouraging diffusion and swelling.
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, and tanning beds for 48 hours.
- Limit direct midday sun; if you must be outside, apply mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) after the initial 24‑hour window.
- Skip excessively hot showers; lukewarm water is preferable.
3. Strenuous Physical Activity
High heart rate and blood pressure can spread toxins and intensify bruising.
- No intense cardio, weightlifting, or inversions for the first 24 hours.
- Gentle walking is acceptable after four hours if you remain upright.
- Resume full workouts only once tenderness and redness have resolved.
4. Blood Thinners, Alcohol, and Certain Foods
Some common medications and supplements can increase bruising by thinning your blood or affecting circulation. For 24 hours (or as directed by your provider), avoid:
- Pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen
- Supplements like fish oil and vitamin E
- Alcohol and excessive caffeine
5. Occlusive Makeup & Skin Care Irritants
Let your skin recover by avoiding products and treatments that could irritate injection sites or disrupt results.
- Wait 24 hours before using foundation, concealer, or exfoliating cleansers.
- Stick to a gentle, fragrance‑free cleanser and moisturizer during the first night.
- Postpone retinoids, alpha‑hydroxy acids, or scrubs until any pinpoint redness subsides.
6. Aesthetic Procedures
Skin treatments that generate heat or micro‑injury can interfere with toxin placement.
- Delay facials, chemical peels, lasers, microneedling, and additional injectables for 10‑14 days.
- Coordinate future appointments with your injector to maintain a safe interval.
Read more: What Looks More Natural Botox Or Dysport?
Daxxify Side Effects and How Long They Last
Aftercare Tips to Support Recovery & Longevity
Follow these proven strategies to minimize side effects and maintain a natural appearance:
- Apply wrapped ice for 10–15 minutes at a time, starting after the initial four-hour window, to curb swelling.
- Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) for discomfort, avoiding NSAIDs.
- Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant‑rich foods (berries, leafy greens) to aid tissue repair.
- Perform gentle facial expressions like raising brows, smiling, and frowning during the first few hours to help the product bind evenly (no conclusive clinical mandate, but many injectors suggest it).
- Maintain daily mineral‐based sunscreen once tenderness resolves; UV damage accelerates wrinkle recurrence.
- Schedule maintenance at the three‑ to four‑month mark before full muscle strength returns.
When to Call Your Injector
While most side effects are mild, call your provider immediately if you experience: severe headaches (unresponsive to pain relievers), vision changes or eyelid drooping, trouble breathing/swallowing/speaking, or widespread swelling/hives. These could signal rare but serious complications requiring prompt medical attention.
Final Word
You can preserve the benefits of your treatment and keep complications to a minimum by following these tips. If anything feels unclear, reach out to your provider. Just a few days of mindful care can translate into months of smooth, natural-looking, wrinkle-free skin.
Refresh Your Look Fast with Dysport® 60 at Northwest Face & Body
Get rid of frown lines in one quick visit. Dysport 60 delivers physician-directed wrinkle-softening in as little as 15 minutes, and packages start at just $219. Call Northwest Face & Body at 425-371-4377.
